Based in Princeton,New Jersey - Justin Gelbman, CFP®, holds executive responsibilities with Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. as Managing Director - Investments. Drawing on extensive mentorship experience, Justin Gelbman emphasizes the importance of teamwork in building highly motivated teams.

The first step of this involves laying out a compelling, easy-to-comprehend vision with milestones that can be easily measured and attained. Engage employees through open discussion and feedback and develop a sense of shared responsibility by understanding individual perspectives and integrating them within the common goal.

At the same time, instill accountability by clearly defining each member’s role within the hierarchy. Make sure that work loads are shared equitably, such that they are manageable and don’t leave a few workers feeling like they are carrying the entire team’s load. Create a process of regular communication with the various project participants in ways that not only help refine each person’s specific duties, but also ensure that potential conflicts and misunderstandings are kept at a minimum.

Remember that what works for one team member may not be enough to generate productivity in another. While shared goals are important, don’t let this lull you into assuming that everyone has the same motivations and shared sense of mission.